Turning Challenges into Strengths

Jun 25

How my neurodivergence enhances my Business

Hey everyone, it’s Maggie! Today, I want to have a chat about my journey as an autistic woman and how embracing my neurodivergence has transformed my life and my business. Running a business while being neurodivergent definitely has its unique challenges, but it also brings amazing strengths that I believe can inspire and empower other entrepreneurs like you.

Personal Background and Diagnosis

I’ve never been formally diagnosed with autism, but I started looking into it shortly after my 40th birthday. I was really struggling with burnout after moving across the country and began to see people sharing their experiences with being diagnosed with autism later in life online. Their stories resonated with me, so I took some well-respected online self-assessments like the RAADS-R and CAT-Q, and they came back positive for autism. This completely changed how I saw myself! I realized that my need for control over my environment, my sensory issues, and my struggles with social cues weren’t faults but parts of me that needed to be respected and honored. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace these parts of myself that often made me feel different growing up.

initial Challenges

Growing up, I always felt like the “weird” kid. I was teased for being geeky and too into the things I loved. Social cues were a mystery to me, and I often found myself friends with other outcasts. Moving frequently didn’t help either; just as I’d start to get comfortable, we’d move again, and I’d have to start all over. As an adult, I tried hard to fit in, masking my true self, which led to unhealthy relationships and professional struggles. In the workplace, my hard work was praised, but I often clashed with office politics and complex relationship dynamics.

In business, I found something I was really passionate about and good at. My knack for organization, being able to research solutions, learning new systems easily and quickly, and taking on many tasks at once all allowed me to excel as an Operations Manager and Business Owner. However, I also found myself at burnout multiple times because I was consistently working towards someone else’s dreams instead of my own. I had found something I loved but was still experiencing major autistic burnout because I wasn’t truly able to do it MY way. I realized that to fully unmask and do this long term successfully, I needed to do it on my own. As scary as it was, knowing what I now know about being autistic, this was the only path that allowed me to stay true to myself.

turning Points

A significant turning point was when I sold my shares in my last business. After yet another burnout, I realized the problem wasn’t me, but the choices I was making to run away from myself. I was pouring everything into others, seeking validation, but it wasn’t sustainable. I needed to accept all of me and advocate for my needs.

Over the last three years, I've been learning to advocate for myself and my needs as an autistic woman. I began to understand what I needed and started asking others for their support and acceptance. I quickly realized that I had people in my life who truly loved me for who I was, not just my mask. They appreciated the honesty I brought, gave me compassion when I struggled, and accepted that they too would need to adjust how they interacted with me. This full acceptance allowed me to see those who truly accepted me, making me realize that advocating for myself was a powerful and positive tool.

To be successful in business, I learned I had to advocate for myself in my career as well. The only way I could do that was to go into business by myself, for myself. This way, I can still make other people’s dreams come true without losing myself in the process.

Unique Strengths

My neurodivergence brings some pretty cool strengths to my business. I have a keen eye for detail, a love for organization, and a knack for problem-solving. I can quickly learn new systems and research solutions. For example, I taught myself to knit and crochet and turned it into a successful business. In the professional realm, this means I can adapt to new software and help businesses use them effectively. My background in education also helps me create thorough training materials tailored to each business's needs.

This has benefited my business because I can track multiple projects at once, working with several different clients across various types of projects. Whether it’s event coordination, change management, technical writing, or acting as an agent, I dive into every project headfirst and with enthusiasm! My unique perspective often leads to innovative solutions that truly benefit my clients.

advice for Others

To my fellow neurodivergent entrepreneurs, know that your unique traits are strengths. Many of us start businesses because we don't fit the traditional mold, or we have a unique vision. These differences attract people who resonate with your story and vision. If you need support with certain aspects of your business, that’s totally okay. Surround yourself with people who compliment your skills. Asking for help isn’t a failure; it’s a powerful step toward success.

This has been the biggest mindset shift for me as well, fully becoming authentic and true to myself, it’s something I’m still learning and working on every day! I may not be able to work a traditional 40-hour job in an office, but I’m really efficient with my work and can get a LOT done in a shorter amount of time than most people, which is a huge strength in running a business. I may not always understand people and why they do what they do, but I am compassionate and accepting of others, and I’m always willing to help someone in need. The biggest lesson I’ve learned from business is that our business is not separate from us, it IS us, it is our hearts on our sleeves for all to see, so embracing who we are will only help to strengthen our company.

Looking Forward

Moving forward, I plan to build a business that works for me. I focus on genuine, in-person connections rather than growing a large online audience. I work with people and missions I care about, trusting that profit will follow. Prioritizing my mental health and family is crucial, and I’m dedicated to maintaining a business that aligns with my life and values.

Conclusion

Embracing my neurodivergence has transformed my business and my life. By honoring my unique strengths and advocating for my needs, I’ve created a sustainable and fulfilling career. If you’re interested in working with Little Light Solutions to achieve your business goals while honoring your unique journey, please reach out. Let’s create a brighter world together!

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